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Jack basically equates the word work with stress. His boss piles more on him than five folks should have to do, three-quarters of his job makes no difference to anyone anywhere, and two of his coworkers share half a brain, if that. Jack constantly has to pick up after their fiascos to keep the ship from sinking. Oh, and there's the little tiny aspect of little tiny paychecks that barely feed his family from month to month.

Sound familiar? Many of us feel trapped in a position that we call 'work'. Oh, things started out wonderfully. We entered the career with high hopes of making the world a better place. But gradually, the job became more and more political, with statistics mattering more than people and work well done. Now, after putting in so many years, so much money in our retirement fund, it'd seem ludicrous to quit. But the stress level keeps us so highly adrenalized, we know it's adversely affecting our health. It's definitely affecting our emotions.

Do you keep working until retirement, hoping things will get better? How about looking for a different position in the company? Or should you quit altogether and try your hand at starting your own business?

Let's answer these questions based on how your stress levels would be affected. To remain in the same place hoping things will change for the better ' hmmm, isn't that someone's definition of insanity? Chances are your stress levels aren't going to decrease. You could take a course on how to deal with difficult people, which could help out if you have a boss and/or co-workers like Jack has. Certainly, changing your mindset and not letting the little things get to you can make a difference. Deciding what really is your responsibility and what's not may help, too.

If you're feeling like you aren't making a difference, and you're looking for a job that's more meaningful, perhaps a deeper look into the same company may uncover something. Many times folks find themselves wanting to help other people or pursue a calling. Typically, this need can be fulfilled outside of work unless the person decides to make a total job change and follow his heart. While that can product more stress initially, in the long run the person may benefit far more.

Starting up a business is the dream of many an 'employee'. For some, the leap breeds success. For others, it's a leap off the deep end. To avoid falling off the edge, never just quit one job and start your own business with no means of support. Talk about stress! Take it easy. Do your research in your spare time. Apply for a loan if you are completely serious. Give it at least six months, having some income coming in before quitting your job and working for yourself full-time.

There are an abundance of choices now that offer the 'trapped' soul opportunities for positive change. There's nothing like working in a job you love so much, you'd do it even if you weren't paid! Do make sure you take it slow and easy instead of making one giant leap off the job security cliff. Gradual changes will lessen your stress overall.